Work to begin on Mercer Island East Link Traffic Mitigation Project

As part of the Environmental Impact Study and Record of Decision for the East Link Light Rail project, Sound Transit will make traffic mitigation efforts around the Mercer Island station. The improvements primarily consist of improved traffic signals, pavement, and markings at three intersections nearest the station. The scope of these improvements includes replacing existing hanging traffic signals with traffic light poles, installing new curbs and sidewalks for improved pedestrian experience, enhancing crosswalk markings, completing final landscaping improvements, replacing an existing catch basin on the SE corner for better stormwater management, and installing new curbs and sidewalks for improved pedestrian experience.

Work is expected to start in mid-August 2024, with utility location, surveys, necessary demolition, and installation of erosion control measures. The public should anticipate some temporary traffic and pedestrian impacts. The City of Mercer Island and the Washington State Department of Transportation reviewed and approved the traffic detour plans. Additionally, trucks with drilling equipment may be used for "potholing" to investigate subsurface conditions. This project is anticipated to be completed in January of 2025.

More project information can be found here.